1870 Springfield

[crazysccrmd]

I'm thinking about picking up an 1870 trapdoor that needs some love and getting it in shooting shape, maybe restored somewhat. The seller says the hammer won't stay cocked but it is otherwise functional and the bore looks to be in pretty decent shape. The stock has been shortened and the rear sight is missing. The trigger guard looks to be installed backwards as well.

It looks like it could be a first run of the 1870 model and doesn't have serial numbers on the left of the receiver or barrel. Only numbers the seller could find were 1863 on the side plate and 1870 on the top of the breech.

I can pick this up for $400. Is that a decent price for a trapdoor needing some work or should I pass?

 

[Maj Dad]

I would lean toward passing. The 1863 lock plate would be correct for an 1868 conversion, and the trap/bolt is from an 1870, but I'm guessing it's an 1868. Plus, the bad lock, cut down stock, no sight, and uncertainty about the barrel detract. The original 1868s had a barrel liner to drop it from .58 to .50, and they aren't really what you want as a shooter. If you really want a trapdoor, I would wait for one that is a little better. But - if you really can't live without it, $400 isn't a lot to blow (unless you don't have it). I bought my first M1873 rifle (all correct and very nice) for $125 when I was an E5 at Ft Bragg way back, and couldn't really afford it. Still have it

 

[4v50 Gary]

For me, the lock is not an issue.

What you will need will be a new rear sight, new stock (better if you can stock it yourself from a stock blank). Calculate the cost of it, perhaps from Dixie Gun Works, into the cost of the package.

As for me, I'd tackle it as a practice piece for stockmaking and lock repair.

 

[StrawHat]

The rifle pictured appears to be a cut down version of the 1870 Trapdoor. From the photo of the breechblock it looks to be from the earlier run of that model. It should be a 50-70. A replacement stock will be about $300, a new tumbler maybe $50. Sights and the little parts to put it back to resemble the original rifle will add to the cost.

Of course the trigger may be the reason the hammer won't stay cocked. A new trigger is not too much, maybe 20 bucks.

Restoration to original is possible but that will be even costlier.